Florida’s warm and sunny climate often makes it an ideal camping spot for nature lovers and camping enthusiasts. Whether it be its pristine white sands or its lush mangrove swamps, there is something for everyone in Florida. To help make sure your camping trip to Florida is as hassle-free as possible, we have compiled a list of the best camping sites in Florida. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and reconnect with nature once again!
9 Best Camping Sites in Florida
Planning for an outdoor camping in Florida? Given below are the 9 best camping sites in Florida that are sure to give you a unique and diverse camping experience. Read on to learn more about the best camping sites in Florida and get ready for your next adventure!
1. Camp Seminole Springs
Located in the heart of Orange Springs, Camp Seminole is one of the best camping sites in Florida for travellers who want to get away from bustling cities and connect with nature. The camp is mid-way between the cities of Ocala and Gainesville, Florida, and offers various activities ranging from hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. This scenic 38-acre property also boasts an artesian spring that pushes out a staggering 1.6 million gallons of water every day! This water fills the pond and continues on to flow into Orange Creek. It is also advised to bring bug sprays and sunscreen.
If you need anything, there is a general store, gas station and small cafe within walking distance of the campsite. Bathrooms are available with showers and campfires are allowed on the site.
Things To Do At Camp Seminole Springs: Hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, canoeing, and off-roading.
Features For Campers:
- Market
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Must Read: Things to do in Florida
2. Smokey Acres
Located just a few miles from Brookesville and Suncoast Parkway, Smokey Acres is a quiet and peaceful setting perfect for nature lovers. The campground is 10 acres in size and offers various activities for guests to find relief from the constant hustle of the city and traffic. Whether it be a leisurely day on the river or an adventurous hike, Smokey Acres is one of the best camping places in Florida. However, make sure to get back to the property in time to enjoy an amazing sunset that will bring unmatched peace to your experience. So what are you waiting for? Book your campsites today and reconnect with nature.
Things To Do At Smokey Acres: Biking, boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, off-roading, and swimming
Features For Campers:
- Outdoor shower
- Hot water
- Security cameras on the property
- Fire extinguisher
- Firepit
- Free parking on the premises
3. SC Campgrounds
SC Campgrounds is a peaceful 80-acre homestead turned into a serene activity campground located just outside Orlando, Florida. SC Campgrounds is one of the top camping sites in Florida and offers a wide variety of accommodations and amenities. These include campsites with power, water, restrooms, and camps with central A/C and heat. Additionally, the camp also offers putt-putt courses, canoes, pirate ships, ATV trails, a swimming pool, and much more! For a truly unique experience, there is also a projector screen for an outdoor movie experience. Each campsite comes with a fire pit, picnic table, and electricity. The campground is also pet-friendly. So why wait? Book your campground with SC Campgrounds today!
Things To Do At SC Campgrounds: Biking, boating, fishing, hiking, off-roading, canoeing and swimming
Features For Campers:
- Electricity
- Water
- Restrooms
- Central A/C and Heat
- Projector Screen
- Picnic Table
- Fire Pit
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Florida
4. Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground
Spread across 750 acres of land, Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 3 miles of stunning shoreline, water, and islands to explore! Guests can primarily choose between 4 different campsites—Lake View and Oak Forest RV sites or shoreline tent camping and dispersed tent camping. No matter the camping site you choose, picnic tables, fire ring, water, and charcoal grills are provided. So join us for our exciting Texas Longhorn Cattle drives and enjoy a beautiful, nature-filled time with your friends or family! Walk or bike ride our many ridge trails and end the day with cookouts, music, fun, family time, and laughter at Wilderness Shores Ranch campground.
Things To Do At Wilderness Shores Ranch: Boating, fishing, hiking, paddling, wildlife Watching
Features For Campers:
- RV Camper Rentals
- Tent Rental
- Kayaking
- Picnic Tables
- Fire Ring
- Water
- Charcoal Grills
5. North Shore Relic Ranch
With 40 acres of nature, you can always expect to come across something at North Shore Relic Ranch. The campground is under an ancient canopy of oaks and provides sufficient shade from the sun. If you ever get tired of humans, they also have friendly goats and cows as well! The campground also provides some interesting vehicles to help you explore the campgrounds. There are also miles of marked natural trails next to the campsites. Campsite areas are quite vast so privacy should not be of any concern. Fishing is allowed on the property. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, there are also some state-owned hiking trails and canals to fish and kayak on.
Things To Do At North Shore Relic Ranch: Biking, boating, fishing, hiking, off-roading, canoeing and swimming
Features For Campers:
- Tent sites
- Picnic Tables
- Firewood
- Water
- Toilets
- Fires
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Orlando
6. Bay Forest Retreat
Owned by two military veteran families, Bay Forest Retreat is one of the most popular tent camping sites in Florida and offers over 11 acres of rustic, untamed woods to explore! If you are looking to be closer to nature, primitive camping is permitted at designated high grounds in the middle of the campgrounds. However, it is advised to bring close-toed shoes or boots for hiking throughout the property. Apart from camping, you can also visit some additional points of interest around the campground as well. These include the National Naval Aviation Museum, Air Force Armament Museum, Fort Pickens, Indian Temple Mound Museum, and Museum of Industry.
Things To Do At Bay Forest Retreat: Biking, boating, fishing, hiking, paddling, swimming. wildlife watching
Features For Campers:
- Picnic Table
- Showers
- Fires
- Toilets
- Pets Allowed
- Alcohol
- Drinking Water
7. Area 61 Camping
Spread across 5 acres, Area 61 is a well-known camping place in Florida. The campground feeds directly into the Peace River and has a wide variety of wildlife for you to gaze upon. These include whitetail deer, turkeys, alligators, otters, armadillos, and several different types of birds including owls. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, you can also go on a canoeing or kayaking trip on Peace River. Along the creek, several terraced waterfalls provide for a wonderful, wetlands area for the wildlife.
Things To Do At Area 61 Camping: Biking, kayaking, boating, hiking, wildlife watching, paddling
Features For Campers:
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Fire
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Tampa
8. Islandmorada Water Retreat
Just 45 yards from the Atlantic Ocean, Islandmorada Water Retreat is ideal for people who want to experience the Florida Keys close to the water. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, the Islandmorada Water Retreat offers luxurious accommodations. With its breathtaking beauty, this campground promises an unforgettable escape for those seeking peace and luxury near the great Atlantic. The location is perfect for paddle boarding, swimming, and fishing. If you are looking for a more relaxed experience, maybe you can spend a sunny day at the beach. For ease, there are commercial gas grills, electricity, and water.
Things To Do At Islandmorada Water Retreat: Snorkeling, kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, swimming, and fishing.
Features For Campers:
- Pets allowed
- Bins available
- Phone service
- Water
9. Hidden Oaks RV & Campground
Tucked away in 11 acres of beautiful oak trees, Hidden Oaks RV & Campground is often mentioned among the top camping sites in Florida. Filled with Spanish moss, this tropical paradise offers a beautiful experience looking for an escape from the ever-awake cities. The sites at Hidden Oaks RV & Campground are large and secluded as well. So as far as privacy goes, you’ve got nothing to worry about. There is also availability of hot outdoor showers and flushable toilets. The campground is 10 minutes away from the white sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, we are 30 minutes away from the Daytona Speedway and NSB Speedway. Kayak and surfing equipment are also available for rent at the camp.
Things To Do At Hidden Oaks RV & Campground: Biking, boating, fishing, hiking, paddling, swimming, surfing, wildlife watching.
Features For Campers:
- Campfires allowed
- Toilet
- Potable water
- Pets allowed
Further Read: Beach Resorts In Florida
Everybody needs an escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities and what better way to do that than a camping trip? Spend a few days at the green, lush campgrounds of Florida and reconnect with nature. So on your next trip to the USA, check out some of the above-mentioned camping sites in Florida and find your escape!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Sites in Florida
What is the best month to go camping in Florida?
Generally, January and February are considered best for hiking and backpacking. On the other hand, August, September, and October are the worst months to go camping in Florida due to its weather, high humidity, and potential thunderstorms.
Where do people go camping in Florida?
When it comes to outdoor camping, there are several spots in Florida that are often the most sought after by nature lovers. These include:
- Cayo Costa State Park
- Camp Seminole Springs
- Smokey Acres
- Wilderness Shores Ranch
- Bay Forest Retreat
What are the different ways that you can stay overnight in Florida State Parks?
Florida's state parks offer a multitude of ways to stay in their parks overnight and enjoy nature. These include:
- Camping in a tent
- RV
- Travel Trailer
- Pop-up camper
- Motor home
- Truck camper
Can you camp on any Florida beaches?
In the state of Florida, campers are generally not allowed to camp in the sand unless it has been expressly stated. Most campgrounds in Florida beaches are set behind sand dunes with picnic tables, electric hookups, and toilet access.
Can you camp in Florida in the summer?
Due to its hot and humid weather, outdoor camping in Florida during summer can be challenging. However, with some extra preparation, you can camp comfortably and reconnect with nature even on the warmest of days.
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